Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe πππ
This Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is a perfect balance of tangy citrus, creamy cheesecake filling, and the sweet addition of cherries and pistachios. The crust is nutty and flavorful, while the topping adds a delightful cherry burst. Here’s how to make this irresistible dessert!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs π
- ¼ cup granulated sugar π¬
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted π§
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios π°
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened π§
- 1 cup sour cream π
- ¾ cup granulated sugar π¬
- 3 large eggs π₯
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice π
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice π
- Zest of 1 lemon π
- Zest of 1 lime π
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract π¦
- ½ cup cherry puree (fresh or frozen) π
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved π
- ¼ cup cherry preserves or jam π
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios π°
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and chopped pistachios. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined and resembles wet sand.
Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, using the back of a spoon to press it down evenly. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and granulated sugar, and continue to beat until well combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lime juice, lemon zest, lime zest, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated.
Finally, gently fold in the cherry puree, mixing until the color is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. This helps prevent cracking.
After that, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Once the cheesecake has chilled and set, it’s time to prepare the topping. In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cherries and cherry preserves (or jam). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices and the preserves melt into a syrup. Let it cool slightly before spreading it over the top of the cheesecake.
After spreading the cherry mixture, sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the top for added crunch and flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice and serve the cheesecake, enjoying the beautiful combination of tangy citrus, sweet cherries, and crunchy pistachios!
Tips:
- For a smoother filling: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Topping variations: You can also add some extra whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate for a fun twist.
- Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
This Luscious Lemon-Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake is the perfect dessert to impress your guests or to treat yourself to something special. Enjoy the balance of tangy citrus, sweet cherries, and nutty pistachios! πππ
